Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Classic Vanilla Butter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk

Highlighted under: Indulgent Oven Treats

I remember the first time I baked a classic vanilla butter cake—it filled my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that brought back memories of my grandmother’s baking. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy evening at home. The buttery flavor combined with the sweet vanilla essence creates a delightful treat that is both simple and elegant. I love how versatile this cake is; it can be served plain, frosted with icing, or enjoyed with fresh fruit on the side. Let’s dive into making this comforting dessert together!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.547Z

Baking this classic vanilla butter cake is a cherished memory for me. The delicate balance of butter and sugar in the batter creates a moist and tender crumb that can’t be beaten. I found that using high-quality vanilla extract elevates the flavor and aroma, making every bite a joy. Remember to let the cake cool completely before slicing, as this helps maintain its perfect texture.

While I often enjoy this cake on its own, I discovered that pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the overall experience. You can also try adding a simple glaze or frosting for a more decadent treat. Each slice brings a comforting nostalgia that takes me back to joyful moments spent baking with loved ones.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich buttery flavor that is simply irresistible
Versatile enough for any occasion or creative addition
A classic dessert that never goes out of style

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of any vanilla butter cake is undoubtedly the butter. I recommend using high-quality unsalted butter for the creamiest texture and flavor. The butter should be softened but not melted—this makes it easier to cream with sugar and ensures the cake rises beautifully. Additionally, using room temperature eggs helps to create an emulsion that lends stability and a uniform texture to your cake, preventing any unwanted lumps.

Granulated sugar not only sweetens your cake but also contributes to its structure. When creamed with butter, sugar helps to incorporate air, which is essential for achieving a light and fluffy crumb. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like coconut sugar, but keep in mind that this may alter the cake's color and flavor slightly.

Lastly, using fresh ingredients like pure vanilla extract is crucial. The flavor profile of your cake greatly benefits from quality vanilla, enhancing the overall taste and aroma. If you're out of vanilla extract, you can substitute it with equal parts of vanilla bean paste or even a splash of almond extract for a delicious twist.

Baking Technique Insights

When combining the dry ingredients, make sure to whisk them thoroughly to prevent any lumps. This ensures an even distribution of the baking powder and salt throughout the batter. Sifting the flour before measuring can also improve the cake's lightness, as it aerates the flour, allowing it to mix more easily with the wet ingredients.

The method of alternating dry and wet ingredients when mixing your batter is essential. Start and end with the flour mixture, as this helps maintain the cake's structure and moisture. Overmixing after adding the flour can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until no streaks remain. If you're making variations, such as a lemon zest addition, consider folding it in at the end to keep the cake airy.

Baking at the correct temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect rise and golden color. If your oven tends to run hot, using an oven thermometer can help ensure that your cake bakes evenly. A good visual cue for doneness is when the edges begin to pull away from the pan and the top is a light golden brown. Remember to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your classic vanilla butter cake:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk

Once you have these ingredients ready, you can proceed to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your classic vanilla butter cake:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.

Cream the butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add eggs and vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.

Pour into the pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious classic vanilla butter cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider using a splash of almond extract alongside the vanilla. It brings a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the cake beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

You can make this cake ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules! Once baked, let the cake cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to let it thaw before serving to regain its moist texture.

If you've baked a layered cake, consider storing each layer separately for even better freshness. You can also slice the cake beforehand and wrap individual pieces to enjoy later. This makes for a quick snack or dessert option on the go—just pair with some fresh fruit for a delightful treat.

Serving Suggestions

This classic vanilla butter cake is fantastic on its own, but feel free to elevate it with a variety of toppings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance, while a rich buttercream frosting takes it to a new level of decadence. For a lighter option, serve it with whipped cream and fresh berries, which pair wonderfully with the buttery flavor.

Consider dressing the cake with a layered flavor profile. Spread a layer of strawberry or raspberry preserves between slices for a delicious twist. You can also experiment by adding ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts into the batter, which can provide a delightful contrast to the rich vanilla taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter for margarine?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may slightly change the flavor and texture.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake once it’s cool. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I add to flavor the cake?

You can add lemon zest, cocoa powder, or even fruit purees to the batter to create different flavors.